Interlocking reusable spill-proof containers

ABSTRACT

A kit made up of a plurality of interlocking spill-proof containers including a first container and a second container. The first container includes a petri having a body with a top opening, at least one cavity, a bottom and at least one magnet, a jacket that at least partially envelops the body, and a cap configured for placement over the petr. The second container includes a petri having a body with a top opening, at least one cavity, a bottom and at least one magnet, a jacket that at least partially envelops the body, a cap configured for placement over the petri, and at least one center section disposed between the petri and the cap. The first and second containers are releasably attached to each other via the magnets contained by the first and second containers.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 16/948,710, filed Sep. 29, 2020 and entitled INTERLOCKINGREUSABLE SPILL-PROOF CONTAINERS, which in turn is a continuation of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 16/687,103, filed Nov. 18, 2019 and entitledINTERLOCKING REUSABLE SPILL-PROOF CONTAINERS, issued as U.S. Pat. No.10,822,143, which in turn claims priority to U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 62/768,580, filed Nov. 16, 2018 and entitled DEVICES ANDMETHODS FOR MAKING AND USING REUSABLE, SPILL-PROOF BOTTLES FOR SINGLEAND MULTIPLE TYPES AND QUANTITIES OF PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTS, thecontents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in theirentirety.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to an interlocking reusablespill-proof container. More particularly, the present disclosure relatesto an interlocking reusable spill-proof travel bottle that can house acosmetic or personal care product, or separately house multiplecosmetics or personal care products, depending on the embodiment.

BACKGROUND

When people travel, often they need to bring toiletries, cosmetics, andother items with them. However, travelers are often prohibited frommerely bringing these items with them due to Transportation SecurityAdministration regulations, which limit the quantities in which theseitems can be brought. Compounding this problem is the limited space thattravelers have to pack their items, creating a need to efficientlytransport their items. While many plastics can be used to address thisproblem, in today's ecological climate, there is a strong desire tolimit the amount of single-use plastics which can cause great damage tothe environment. Moreover, merely purchasing toiletries and cosmeticsonce travelers have arrived and disposing of them prior to their returncreates undue waste, further damaging the environment.

Additionally, only a small fraction of brands offer travel-sizetoiletries and cosmetics, limiting the options available to travelers.Further, these travel bottles are often poorly constructed and are proneto leaking or breaking. Luxury toiletries made with precious ingredientsare also available, creating a need for devices that easily allow forcomplete use of products and that prevent loss and waste of thesematerials.

While refillable travel bottles do exist, they are separate, individualbottles that have no method of connecting to each other. The only wayfor the travel bottles on the market to connect is through a secondarymethod, a mechanism not one with the bottle but an external connectorsuch as a bag, which has its own limitations of size, quality, andmaterial. Current travel bottles on the market have sizes ranging from 1oz to 3.4 oz. These sizes do not account for transferring moreconcentrated products, such as serums into these bottles.

Due to the aforementioned limitations, consumers often choose to bringtheir full-sized product bottles with them which often leak, take upunnecessary space, and add additional weight in a situation where everypound counts.

Existing travel bottles on the market are often square, rectangular,round, or some combination thereof. However, the rounded products wastespace when combined, and when square or rectangle containers are used inodd amounts, the collection is an awkward shape, making it difficult topack and transport. There is a need for travel bottles on the marketthat make well-organized odd numbered sets for travel, storage, and use.Moreover, containers of different shapes and size can easily separateand become lost in a bag, preventing the user from quickly finding agiven containers; a maddening process.

Another limitation of existing travel bottles is that it is challenging,if not impossible, for users to use all of a viscous liquid productstored in such bottles. Too often the necks of these products are toosmall, the bottle shapes and interior surfaces often prohibit fullproduct removal. Further, the viscosity of the product can preventgravity or positive pressure to remove all of the stored product, andpumps typically don't reach all the way to the bottom of thesecontainers. Particularly when products are precious or the consumerneeds this “last drop” on a trip or right at that moment, this is veryfrustrating for the consumer. Wasted personal care products also oftenend up in the water system and can impact the environment negatively.There is a need for consumers to be able to access all their productwhen they want to, and easily, in ways that do not hurt the environment.

Travel containers can often be translucent, suggesting or revealing whatproduct is inside. In various situations such as a business trip, latenight at work, spending a night at a significant others, one can feeluncomfortable with their personal care routine being unintentionallytransparent, providing a need for quality, opaque travel containers.Material that is not durable can break, which wastes product, money, andtime. This can also create a dangerous situation as broken pieces ofmaterial can remain on the floor, which can be especially difficult tonavigate in contexts in which products are normally used in, such asshowers.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure provides for an interlocking reusable spill-proofcontainer. In one embodiment, the container has a petri and a cap, andsome embodiments also feature a center. That is, embodiments can existutilizing only a petri and cap, while others exist utilizing a petri, acenter, and a cap as defined by the current disclosure.

The petri is constructed out of a body and a jacket, where the body hasa cavity which is bounded by a top opening on the body, a bottom of thebody, and a plurality of walls that extend between the top opening andthe body, which form a number of attachment points. The top opening isequipped with a first attachment mechanism which is used to provide forthe releasable attachment to the center. The jacket has a floor, a tophole, and a plurality of edges extending between the two, where theplurality of edges for a plurality of receiving points. The jacket issized such that the body will fit within the jacket, such that theplurality of attachment points are proximate to or are abutting againstthe plurality of receiving points such that they can be attached via afriction fit, overmolding process, or an adhesive.

The center has an upper opening equipped with a first attachmentmechanism, a bottom opening equipped with a third attachment mechanism,a curved interior wall surrounding by a plurality of exterior walls,where both of these walls extend from the upper opening to the bottomopening. Preferably, the third attachment mechanism will extend beyondthe bottom opening and the second attachment mechanism will extendbeyond the upper opening.

The cap has a top surface and a fourth attachment mechanism below thetop surface, where the fourth attachment mechanism is configured toreleasably attach to the first attachment mechanism. In someembodiments, the top surface has a recessed which is sized to create alimited friction fit with a removable label which integrates with thecap.

In various embodiments, the container in accordance with the presentdisclosure is equipped with a pump section to allow for the easydispensing of liquids and other fluids which are stored within saidcontainer. The pump section is comprised of an actuator having an inletand an outlet, a pump housing containing a pump, the pump housingsitting beneath the actuator, a platform within the pump housing, whichsits beneath the actuator, which abuts against the pump, and a trackwhich abuts against the pump housing and releasably attaches to thefirst attachment mechanism, where the actuator, pump, and cavity are allin fluid communication with each other.

In another highly preferred embodiment, the actuator can be extendedbeyond the pump housing through the use of a twist-and-rise mechanism,and can be withdrawn into the pump housing through the use of that sametwist-and-rise elevator. One benefit of this system is that it serves toprotect the actuator during travel.

The present disclosure also contemplates interlocking reusablespill-proof containers that are equipped with multiple cavities so thata user can store multiple products within the same container, withoutthe products coming into contact with each other. In some of theseembodiments, the container comprises a center, a first portion, a secondportion, a first cap and a second cap.

The center has a first well defined by a first bottom and a firstopening equipped with a first attachment mechanism, and a second welldefined by a second bottom and a second opening equipped with a secondattachment mechanism, where the first bottom and second bottom areproximate to each other.

The first portion has a first end and a second end, the first end havinga means for releasably attaching to the first attachment mechanism and afirst member such that when the first portion is attached to the centerportion, the first member creates a fluid-impermeable seal with thefirst opening. The second end has a third well with a third bottom andthird opening equipped with a third attachment mechanism.

The second portion has a third end and a fourth end, the third endhaving a means for releasably attaching to the second attachmentmechanism and a second member. When the second portion is attached tothe center portion via the second attachment mechanism, the secondmember creates a fluid-impermeable seal with the second opening. Thefourth end has a fourth well with a fourth bottom and fourth openingequipped with a fourth attachment mechanism. The first cap has a meansfor releasably attaching with the third attachment mechanism and a meansfor creating a fluid-impermeable seal with the third opening whenattached thereto. The second cap has a means for releasably attachingwith the fourth attachment mechanism and a means for creating afluid-impermeable seal with the fourth opening when attached thereto.

Similarly to the single-cavity embodiments, the multiple cavityembodiments can also be equipped with one or more pump sections. Each ofthese pump sections comprises an actuator having an inlet and an outlet,a pump housing containing a pump, the pump housing sitting beneath theactuator, a platform within the pump housing, which sits beneath theactuator, which abuts against the pump, and a track which abuts againstthe pump housing and releasably attaches to the third attachmentmechanism, where the actuator, pump, and first well are all in fluidcommunication with each other.

In various embodiments, multiple containers in accordance with thepresent disclosure are bundled together to form a kit. In theseembodiments, the magnets contained in each of the containers are used toattach one container to another, such that a bundle of containers can beconveniently transported.

The present disclosure provides for a leak-proof, spill-proofinterlocking travel container for storing and dispensing liquid and/orsolid cosmetic products and toiletries. Depending on the embodiment, thecontainer may have a single vessel, one or more twist-and-rise pumps,and a removable petri dish for collecting the “last drop” of a productand for minimizing waste. These containers are cleanable, reusable,refillable, and are sized for day-use, overnight stays, and longertravel, all while being TSA-compliant. Preferably, these containers areprimarily of recycled ocean-bound plastic. The bottles are optionallyprovided in radially hexagonal or triangle shapes and are connectible bymagnets. This invention provides combo bottles with 2-4 or even morebottles combined together as one pod. This invention also providesmethods for making and using the containers in accordance with thepresent disclosure.

It is an object of the invention in accordance with the presentdisclosure to provide one or more containers that can be removablyattached for ease, efficiency, and aesthetic benefits.

It is an object of the invention in accordance with the presentdisclosure to provide containers with wide openings and shallowcavities.

It is an object of the invention in accordance with the presentdisclosure to provide a container that allows for the entirety of thecontents of the container to be easily accessed.

It is an object of the invention in accordance with the presentdisclosure to provide a container that has a geometry that minimizesdead space when multiple containers are releasably attached to oneanother.

It is an object of the invention in accordance with the presentdisclosure to provide containers that are constructed substantially fromrecycled materials.

It is an object of the invention in accordance with the presentdisclosure to provide a container that can separately house multiplecosmetic products.

It is an object of the invention in accordance with the presentdisclosure to provide a container having an integrated customizablelabel.

It an object of the invention in accordance with the present disclosureto provide a container for containing and dispensing fluids such as lowviscosity liquids, medium viscosity liquids, high viscosity liquids, aswell as semi-solid products and solid products.

The present invention and its embodiments meets and exceeds theseobjectives.

While these units may be suitable for the particular purpose employed,or for general use, they would not be as suitable for the purposes ofthe present disclosure as disclosed hereafter.

In the present disclosure, where a document, act, or item of knowledgeis referred to or discussed, this reference or discussion is not anadmission that the document, act, item of knowledge, or any combinationthereof that was known at the priority date, publicly available, knownto the public, part of common general knowledge or otherwise constitutesprior art under the applicable statutory provisions; or is known to berelevant to an attempt to solve any problem with which the presentdisclosure is concerned.

While certain aspects of conventional technologies have been discussedto facilitate the present disclosure, no technical aspects aredisclaimed. It is contemplated that the claims may encompass one or moreof the conventional technical aspects discussed herein.

However, it is contemplated that the present disclosure may prove usefulin addressing other problems and deficiencies in a number of technicalareas. Therefore, the claims should not necessarily be construed aslimited to addressing any of the particular problems or deficienciesdiscussed hereinabove. To the accomplishment of the above, thisdisclosure may be embodied in the form illustrated in the accompanyingdrawings. Attention is called to the fact, however, that the drawingsare illustrative only. Variations are contemplated as being part of thedisclosure.

Implementations may include one or a combination of any two or more ofthe aforementioned features.

These and other aspects, features, implementations, and advantages canbe expressed as methods, apparatuses, systems, components, programproducts, business methods, and means or steps for performing functions,or some combination thereof.

Other features, aspects, implementations, and advantages will becomeapparent from the descriptions, the drawings, and the claims.

A kit according to an exemplary embodiment of the present inventioncomprises a plurality of interlocking spill-proof containers including afirst container and a second container, the first spill-proof containercomprising: a petri comprising: a body having a top opening, at leastone cavity, a bottom and at least one magnet; and a jacket that at leastpartially envelops the body; and a cap configured for placement over thepetri, the second spill-proof container comprising: a petri comprising:a body having a top opening, at least one cavity, a bottom and at leastone magnet; and a jacket that at least partially envelops the body; acap configured for placement over the petri; and at least one centersection disposed between the petri and the cap, wherein the first andsecond containers are releasably attached to each other via the magnetscontained by the first and second containers.

In exemplary embodiment, the jacket and cap of the first and secondcontainers each have a plurality of exterior walls that form a hexagonshape.

In exemplary embodiment, the petri and cap of the first container areinterchangeable with the petri and cap of the second container to formmodified containers.

In exemplary embodiment, the kit further comprises a third spill-proofcontainer, the third spill-proof container comprising: a petricomprising: a body having a top opening, at least one cavity, a bottomand at least one magnet; and a jacket that at least partially envelopsthe body; a cap configured for placement over the petri; and at leastone center section disposed between the petri and the cap, wherein thefirst, second and third containers are releasably attached to one othervia the magnets contained by the first, second and third containers.

In exemplary embodiment, the petri, cap and center sections of thefirst, second and third containers are interchangeable with one anotherto form modified containers.

In exemplary embodiment, each cap has a top surface that includes arecess sized to receive a label.

In exemplary embodiment, the kit further comprises a third spill-proofcontainer comprising: a center section having a plurality of embeddedmagnets, a first well defined by a first bottom and a first openingequipped with a first attachment mechanism, and a second well defined bya second bottom and a second opening equipped with a second attachmentmechanism, wherein the first bottom and the second bottom are proximateto each other; a first portion having a first end and a second end, thefirst end having a means for releasably attaching to the firstattachment mechanism and a first member such that when the first portionis attached to the center section via the first attachment mechanism,the first member creates a fluid-impermeable seal with the firstopening, the second end having a third well with a third bottom and athird opening equipped with a third attachment mechanism; a secondportion having a third end and a fourth end, the third end having ameans for releasably attaching to the second attachment mechanism and asecond member such that when the second portion is attached to thecenter section via the second attachment mechanism, the second membercreates a fluid-impermeable seal with the second opening, the fourth endhaving a fourth well with a fourth bottom and a fourth opening equippedwith a fourth attachment mechanism; a first cap having a means forreleasably attaching with the third attachment mechanism and a means forcreating a fluid-impermeable seal with the third opening when attachedthereto; and a second cap having a means for releasably attaching withthe fourth attachment mechanism and a means for creating afluid-impermeable seal with the fourth opening when attached thereto,wherein the first, second and third containers are releasably attachedto one other via the magnets contained by the first, second and thirdcontainers.

In exemplary embodiment, the caps, petris and center sections of thefirst, second and third containers are interchangeable with one anotherto form modified containers.

In exemplary embodiment, the petris of the first and second containersdiffer in size.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In the drawings, like elements are depicted by like reference numerals.The drawings are briefly described as follows.

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a single-cavity embodiment of acontainer in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1A.

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a single-cavity embodiment of acontainer equipped with a pump section in accordance with the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 2A.

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a multiple-cavity embodiment of acontainer in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 3A.

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a multiple-cavity embodiment of acontainer equipped with a pump section in accordance with the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 4A.

FIGS. 5A and 5B are perspective view of two different containersaccording to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of modified container according to anexemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a modified container according toanother exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

The present disclosure now will be described more fully hereinafter withreference to the accompanying drawings, which show various exampleembodiments. However, the present disclosure may be embodied in manydifferent forms and should not be construed as limited to the exampleembodiments set forth herein. Rather, these example embodiments areprovided so that the present disclosure is thorough, complete, and fullyconveys the scope of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art.In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that variousmodifications and variations can be made in the present inventionwithout departing from the scope or spirit of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate a single-cavity embodiment of a container inaccordance with the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 1A, an interlocking reusable spill-proof container 100is shown. Here, container 100 features a petri 102, a center 104, and acap 106 having a top recess 148. Additional structure of thesecomponents can be seen in FIG. 1B. Specifically, FIG. 1B. shows that thepetri 102 has both a body 108 and a jacket 110 which partially envelopsthe body 108. The body 108 is constructed out of a cavity 112, which hasa top opening 114, a bottom 126, and a plurality of walls 118 extendingtherebetween. Each of the plurality of walls 118 is equipped with arecess 120 wherein a magnet 122 is located. In some embodiments, onlyone of the plurality of walls 118 is equipped with the magnet 122. Inother embodiments more than one of the plurality of walls 118 but lessthan all of the plurality of walls 118 will be equipped with the magnet122. At the intersection of each of the plurality of walls 118 anattachment point is formed which is used to interface with the jacket110. The body 108 is also equipped with a first attachment mechanism116A, which extends beyond the top opening 114.

The jacket 110 has a floor 150 which sits beneath the bottom 126, a tophole 128, and a plurality of edges that extend between the floor 150 andthe top hole 128. The top hole 128 is level with the top opening 114,which both sit just beneath the first attachment mechanism 116A. Herethe first attachment mechanism 116A is equipped with male threads tointerface with corresponding female threads, but other methods ofattachment are suitable for use with the first attachment mechanism116A.

The container 100 shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B also includes a center 104.The center 104 has an upper opening 134 equipped with a secondattachment mechanism 136A. The center 104 shown here also has a bottomopening 138, which is equipped with a third attachment mechanism 116B,which interfaces with the first attachment mechanism 116A. Preferably,the bottom opening 138, the top opening 114, and the top hole 128 aresized to create a substantially smooth juncture when the petri 102 andthe center 104 are attached. The center 104 also has a plurality ofexterior walls 142 which extend between the upper opening 134 and thebottom opening 138. Also extending between the upper opening 134 and thebottom opening 138, but within the plurality of exterior walls 142 is acurved interior wall 140 which will create a continuous service with thecavity 112 when the center 104 is attached to the petri 102.

The cap 106 includes a top surface 146, which is equipped with a toprecess 148 sized to receive a label 144. Preferably, the label 144 isremovably attached to the cap 106 through magnets. Alternatively, thelabel 144 can be removably attached to the cap 106 through a limitedfriction fit with the top recess 148. In a variety of embodiments, thelabel 144 has a means for customizing said label such that a user mayindicate the contents of the container 100. In some embodiments, thiscustomization is permanent and in other embodiments the customization isreversable such that it can be customized and re-customized depending onthe contents of the container 100. In some embodiments, the label 144 isremovably attached to the cap 106 through the use of a hinge containedon the top surface 146.

The cap 106 is also equipped with a fourth attachment mechanism 136B,which is used to provide for the removable attachment to the center 104via the second attachment mechanism 136A. In the embodiment shown here,the fourth attachment mechanism 136B is equipped with male threads tointerface with corresponding female threads, but other methods ofattachment are suitable for use with the fourth attachment mechanism136B.

While FIG. 1A shows this embodiment of the container 100 without a label144, FIG. 1B shows the embodiment with label 144 integrated therein andplaced within the top recess 148. Note that while not pictured here, thecap 106 can interface directly with the petri 102 by interfacing thefirst attachment mechanism 116A with the fourth attachment mechanism136B. In highly preferred embodiments, all attachment mechanisms usedfor interfacing a petri 102, a center 104, and/or a cap 106 shall beinterchangeable. When any of the first attachment mechanism 116A, thesecond attachment mechanism 116B, the third attachment mechanism 136A,and/or the fourth attachment mechanism 136B are attached to each other,a seal is formed such that fluids will be contained within the container100. In some embodiments, any or all of the first attachment mechanism116A, the second attachment mechanism 116B, the third attachmentmechanism 136A, and/or the fourth attachment mechanism 136B are equippedwith one or more O-rings to aid with the aforementioned sealing. In ahighly preferred embodiment, the first attachment mechanism 116A, thesecond attachment mechanism 116B, the third attachment mechanism 136A,and/or the fourth attachment mechanism 136B all comprise a twisting orscrewing/unscrewing mechanism to provide for the releasable attachmentthereof.

In various embodiments, the cavity 112 is sized such that a human fingercan scrape out any fluids, solids, or semi-solids stored within thecavity 112. These embodiments are especially useful when high-viscosityliquids are contained within the container 100. Other embodiments existwhere the cavity 112 is sized smaller than a human finger and isoptionally coupled with a scraping tool such as a spatula. Preferably,the cavity 112 and the curved interior wall 140 have a smooth texture.

FIGS. 2A and 2B show a single-cavity embodiment of the container 100,equipped with a pump section 152 to aid with the dispensing oflow-viscosity fluids contained within the container 100. Referring toFIG. 2B, the components of the pump section 152 are shown. Here, thepump section 152 has an actuator 154, a pump housing 156 which containsa pump 158 and a platform 160. The pump section 152 also includes atrack 162 and an integrated twist-and-rise mechanism 164.

Here, the actuator 154 has an inlet 154A for receiving fluid containedwithin the container 100, and an outlet 154B for dispensing said fluid.To operate the embodiment of the container 100 shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B,one must first expose the actuator 154 by removing the label 144 fromthe cap 106. In some embodiments, where the label 144 is attachedmagnetically or through a limited friction fit, the label 144 must beremoved entirely for the container 100 to operate. In other embodiments,where the label 144 is attached to the cap 106 via a hinge, the label144 merely need be rotated away from the cap 106 to expose the actuator154. The track 162 is used to help guide the actuator 154 while beingdepressed, and in some embodiments, to assist the twist-and-risemechanism 164 with its operation. In some embodiments, the track 162 isequipped with a horizontal ridge which is used to keep thetwist-and-rise mechanism 164 in place, which saves space overtraditional pumps.

Once the actuator 154 is exposed, it must be raised above the pumpsection 152 by engaging the twist-and-rise mechanism 164. By twistingthe twist-and-rise mechanism 164, the actuator 154 and the platform 160are raised such that the actuator 154 can be depressed against theplatform 160 to engage the pump 158, while the outlet 154B remains abovethe pump section 152, to allow for proper dispensing. A benefit ofincorporating the twist-and-rise mechanism 164 is that the container 100cannot be accidently bumped and pumped causing the accidental disposalof the contents of the container 100. Not shown here is a dipstick whichis in fluid communication with the pump 158 to allow the pump 160 toaccess fluids stored within the cavity 112. In many embodiments thatincorporate a dipstick, the dipstick rests snugly within the pumpsection 154 such that the pump 158 can be operated without any leakingoccurring. Of note is that even if the dipstick does not extend to thebottom of the cavity 112, because the petri 102 is removable a user canstill collect the remaining product contained within said cavity.

In alternate embodiments, the pump 158 contains a collar and a dipstick,all of which are supported on the platform 160. In some embodiments, thepump 158 further comprises one or more check valves to preventaccidental leakage. In these embodiments the check valve(s) are engagedwhen the actuator 154 is not exposed and is completely contained withinthe pump section 152. In other embodiments, the petri 102 (see FIG. 1A)has a height that is equal to the distance traveled by the actuator 154when the twist-and-rise mechanism 164 is engaged.

FIGS. 3A and 3B show a multi-chamber embodiment of the container inaccordance with the present invention. Here, the container 200 has acenter portion 202, a first portion 204, a second portion 206, a firstcap 208, and a second cap 210.

The center portion 202 has a first well 214 which is formed by a firstbottom 214A and culminates in a first opening 214B, which is equippedwith a first attachment mechanism 214C that extends beyond the secondopening 214B. The center portion 202 also has a second well 216 which isformed by a second bottom 216A and culminates in a first opening 216B,which is equipped with a second attachment mechanism 216C that extendsbeyond the second opening 216B. The first bottom 214A and the secondbottom 216A are proximate to one another, but the first opening 214B andthe second opening 216B are faced in directly opposite directions.

The first portion 204 has a first end 218 which is comprised of a firstmember 222 and a means for releasable attachment 220, and a second end224 which is comprised of a third well 226. The third well 226 is formedby a third bottom 228 and culminates in a third opening 264 which isequipped with a third attachment mechanism 266 that extends beyond thethird opening 264. In many embodiments, the first portion 204 also has aplurality of external walls beyond the first well 214, and a pluralityof magnets embedded in between the first well 214 and the plurality ofexternal walls, such that the magnets can generate a magnetic fieldbeyond said plurality of external walls.

The second portion 206 has a third end 230 which is comprised of a thirdmember 234 and a means for releasable attachment 232, and a fourth end236 which is comprised of a fourth well 238. The fourth well 238 isformed by a fourth bottom 240 and culminates in a fourth opening 242which is equipped with a fourth attachment mechanism 268 that extendsbeyond the fourth opening 242. In many embodiments, the second portion206 also has a plurality of external walls beyond the fourth well 238,and a plurality of magnets embedded in between the fourth well 238 andsaid plurality of external walls, such that the magnets can generate amagnetic field beyond said plurality of external walls.

The first cap 208 has a means for releasable attachment 244 and a meansfor generating a fluid-impermeable seal 246. The means for releasableattachment 244 can be achieved in a variety of ways. Preferably,releasable attachment of the first cap 208 to either the thirdattachment mechanism 266 or the fourth attachment mechanism 268 will bethrough the use of male and female screw threads such that the first cap208 can be releasably screwed on or unscrewed from either the thirdattachment mechanism 266 or the fourth attachment mechanism 268.Alternatively, the means for releasable attachment 244 can also operatethrough a limited friction fit between the first cap 208 and the thirdattachment mechanism 266 or the fourth attachment mechanism 268.

The means for generating a fluid-impermeable seal 246 operates bycreating a seal along the third opening 264 by firmly pressing a rigidmember against the third opening 264. In some embodiments, this seal issupplemented through the use of an O-ring.

The first cap 208 includes a top surface, which is equipped with arecess sized to receive a label in accordance with the presentdisclosure. Preferably, the label is removably attached to the capthrough magnets. Alternatively, the label can be removably attached tothe cap through a limited friction fit with the recess. In a variety ofembodiments, the label has a means for customizing said label such thata user may indicate the contents of the container 200. In someembodiments, this customization is permanent and in other embodimentsthe customization is reversable such that it can be customized andre-customized depending on the contents of the container 200. In someembodiments, the label is removably attached to the cap through the useof a hinge contained on the top surface.

The second cap 210 has a means for releasable attachment 248 and a meansfor generating a fluid-impermeable seal 250. The means for releasableattachment 248 can also be achieved in a variety of ways. Preferably,releasable attachment of the second cap 210 to either the thirdattachment mechanism 266 or the fourth attachment mechanism 268 will bethrough the use of male and female screw threads such that the secondcap 210 can be releasably screwed on or unscrewed from either the thirdattachment mechanism 266 or the fourth attachment mechanism 268.Alternatively, the means for releasable attachment 248 can also operatethrough a limited friction fit between the second cap 210 and the thirdattachment mechanism 266 or the fourth attachment mechanism 268.

The means for generating a fluid-impermeable seal 246 operates bycreating a seal along the fourth opening 242 by firmly pressing a rigidmember against the fourth opening 242. In some embodiments, this seal issupplemented through the use of an O-ring.

The second cap 210 includes a top surface, which is equipped with arecess sized to receive a label. Preferably, the label is removablyattached to the cap through magnets. Alternatively, the label can beremovably attached to the cap through a limited friction fit with therecess. In a variety of embodiments, the label has a means forcustomizing said label such that a user may indicate the contents of thecontainer 200. In some embodiments, this customization is permanent andin other embodiments the customization is reversable such that it can becustomized and re-customized depending on the contents of the container200. In some embodiments, the label is removably attached to the capthrough the use of a hinge contained on the top surface.

FIGS. 4A and 4B. show a multi-chambered embodiment of the container 200in accordance with the present invention equipped with two pump sections212. Similarly to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, thisembodiment of the container 200 has a center portion as described above.However, in lieu of the first portion and second portion of theembodiment of FIGS. 3A and 3B, the embodiment shown here includes two ofthe pump sections 212.

As in the embodiment shown by FIGS. 2A and 2B, each pump section 212 hasan actuator 252, a pump housing which contains a pump 256 and aplatform. The pump section also includes a track and an integratedtwist-and-rise mechanism 262.

Here, the actuator 252 has an inlet for receiving fluid contained withinthe container 200, and an outlet for dispensing said fluid. To operatethe embodiment of the container 200 shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, one mustfirst expose the actuator 252 by removing the label from either thefirst cap 208 or the second cap 210, depending on which pump 256 isbeing operated. In some embodiments, where the label is attachedmagnetically or through a limited friction fit, the label must beremoved entirely for the container 200 to operate. In other embodiments,where the label is attached to either the first cap 208 or the secondcap 210 via a hinge, the label merely need be rotated away from saidcaps to expose the actuator 252. The track is used to help guide theactuator 252 while being depressed, and in some embodiments, to assistthe twist-and-rise mechanism 262 with its operation. In someembodiments, the track is equipped with a horizontal ridge which is usedto keep the twist-and-rise mechanism 262 in place, which saves spaceover traditional pumps.

Once the actuator 252 is exposed, it must be raised above the pumpsection by engaging the twist-and-rise mechanism 262. By twisting thetwist-and-rise mechanism 262, the actuator 252 and the platform areraised such that the actuator 252 can be depressed against the platformto engage the pump 256, while the outlet remains above the pump section212, to allow for proper dispensing. Not shown here is a dipstick whichis in fluid communication with the pump 256 to allow the pump 256 toaccess fluids stored within either first well 214 or the second well216. In many embodiments that incorporate a dipstick, the dipstick restssnugly within the pump section such that the pump 256 can be operatedwithout any leaking occurring. Of note is that even if the dipstick doesnot extend to the bottom of the first well 214 or the second well 216,because the center portion 202 is removable, a user can still collectthe remaining product contained within said cavity.

In alternate embodiments, the pump 256 contains a collar and a dipstick,all of which are supported on the platform. In some embodiments, thepump 256 further comprises one or more check valves to preventaccidental leakage. In these embodiments the check valve(s) are engagedwhen the actuator 252 is not exposed and is completely contained withinthe pump section. In other embodiments, both the first well 214 and thesecond well 216 (see FIG. 3B) have a height that is equal to thedistance traveled by the actuator 252 when the twist-and-rise mechanism262 is engaged.

In many embodiments, the pump section 212 also has a plurality ofexternal walls beyond the pump housing, and a plurality of magnetsembedded in between the pump housing and the plurality of externalwalls, such that the magnets can generate a magnetic field beyond saidplurality of external walls.

In a variety of embodiments, containers in accordance with the presentdisclosure are capable of standing upright by balancing on a capattached to the container. In other embodiments, to the extend anycomponent with an attachment mechanism or means for attachment are sizedto interface with each other, new combinations of components can begenerated except where an attached dipstick would extend too far into awell or cavity.

Further, the present disclosure contemplates a broad range of containersize, cavity size, and well size, including those that are less than 1oz to sizes of about 1 oz to 3.4 oz, 8 oz to 12 oz, 16 oz to 32 oz andlarger, as well as many sizes in between. Moreover, due to the inclusionof magnets in most of the components listed above, it is possible toattach a component while in use to a separate, closed container. Thiswill assist with preventing spills.

FIGS. 5A and 5B show two interlocking reusable spill-proof container 300and 400, respectively, according to an exemplary embodiment of thepresent invention. The container 300 may have any of the configurationsas previously described, including, for example, a single-cavityconfiguration made up of a combination of petri, center and capcomponents or a multi-chamber configuration, with each configurationwith or without a pump mechanism. In the exemplary embodiment shown inFIG. 5A, the container 300 has a petri 302, a center 304 and a cap 306.As also described previously, the single cavity-configuration includesembedded magnets in at least the petri section of the container and themulti-cavity chamber configuration includes embedded magnets in one ormore of the sections that make up the container. As with the previouslydescribed embodiments, the cap 306 may include a means for generating afluid-impermeable seal 246 and a means for releasable attachment 348.

The container 400 is similar to the container 300 except that it hasless number of sections. For example, as shown in FIG. 5B, the container400 may include only two sections, and in the case in which thecontainer 400 has a single-cavity configuration the two sections mayonly include a petri section 402 and a cap section 406.

In exemplary embodiments, the various sections and caps of the container300 and 400 may be interchangeable to form a variety of modifiedcontainers. For example, as shown in FIG. 6 , the petri 302 of thecontainer 300 may be removed and replaced with the petri 402 of thecontainer 400 so that the resulting container 300′ has a size in betweenthe sizes of the containers 300 and 400. This may be useful when, forexample, a user wants to use the container 300 but with a smaller amountof product and/or to make the container 300 have a smaller profile (forexample, for ease of traveling, etc,). Similarly, as shown in FIG. 7 ,the cap 406 of the container 400 may be removed and replaced with thecap 306 of the container 300 (or vice versa) to result in the container400′. This may be useful when, for example, the container 400 is filledwith a product that corresponds with a label on the cap of the container300. Other variations of interchangeable portions and sections of two ormore containers are within the spirit and scope of the presentinvention.

In exemplary embodiments, since the petris or sections of the containersinclude embedded magnets, the two containers 300, 400 may be attached toone another for ease of storage and transport, and when the petris,sections and/or caps are interchanged, the magnets in the petris andsections allow the modified containers to be attached to one anotherregardless of the specific combination of petris, sections and caps.

In exemplary embodiments, a variety of containers, each with a differentnumber of sections and/or petris, may be provided in kit form. Forexample, one or more of the containers may only include two sections(e.g., a cap and petri) while others may include more than two sections(e.g., a cap, petri and any number of center sections). This allows auser to mix and match components of each container as needed to createmodified containers.

It is anticipated that one or more of the embodiments disclosed hereinshall be used in conjunction with each other. As such, the presentdisclosure also contemplates kits of various embodiments of containersto assist users with a variety of travel needs with regard totoiletries, cosmetics, and similar solid, semi-solid, and fluidproducts.

Preferably, the containers described in accordance with the presentdisclosure shall have a geometry that when multiple containers arecombined with pods through the embedded and integrated magnets, theyshall form an interlocking pattern with little to no empty spacetherein. Such shapes include hexagons and triangles.

In a highly preferred embodiment, the containers in accordance with thepresent disclosure shall be constructed out of recycled ocean-boundplastic.

In various embodiments, the containers in accordance with the presentinvention will be filled with products selected from the groupconsisting of: shampoo, conditioner, hair oil, hair mask, scalp oil,scalp exfoliator, liquid eye makeup remover, micellar water, makeupremover wipes, solid face cleanser, liquid face cleanser, toner, serums,scrubs, peels, masks, solid sheet masks, liquid spot treatment, solidspot treatment dots, manuka honey, medicated creams, pomades,moisturizers, shaving cream, liquid body wash, solid body wash, liquidbody exfoliator, liquid body scrub, solid body exfoliator, solid bodyscrub, body oils, body lotions, body moisturizers, body creams, solidperfumed, hand creams, hand moisturizers, hand sanitizers, cotton swabs,tissues, vitamins, supplements, and medications.

It is understood that when an element is referred hereinabove as being“on” another element, it can be directly on the other element orintervening elements may be present therebetween. In contrast, when anelement is referred to as being “directly on” another element, there areno intervening elements present.

Moreover, any components or materials can be formed from a same,structurally continuous piece or separately fabricated and connected.

It is further understood that, although ordinal terms, such as, “first,”“second,” and “third,” are used herein to describe various elements,components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components,regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms.These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region,layer and/or section from another element, component, region, layerand/or section. Thus, a “first element,” “component,” “region,” “layer”and/or “section” discussed below could be termed a second element,component, region, layer and/or section without departing from theteachings herein.

Features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be usedwith another embodiment and such variations come within the scope of theappended claims and their equivalents.

Spatially relative terms, such as “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,”“upper” and the like, are used herein for ease of description todescribe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) orfeature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It is understood that thespatially relative terms are intended to encompass differentorientations of the device in use or operation in addition to theorientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in thefigures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” otherelements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elementsor features. Thus, the example term “below” can encompass both anorientation of above and below. The device can be otherwise oriented(rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relativedescriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

Example embodiments are described herein with reference to cross sectionillustrations that are schematic illustrations of idealized embodiments.As such, variations from the shapes of the illustrations, for example,of manufacturing techniques and/or tolerances, are to be expected. Thus,example embodiments described herein should not be construed as limitedto the particular shapes of regions as illustrated herein, but are toinclude deviations in shapes that result, for example, frommanufacturing. For example, a region illustrated or described as flatmay, typically, have rough and/or nonlinear features. Moreover, sharpangles that are illustrated may be rounded. Thus, the regionsillustrated in the figures are schematic in nature and their shapes arenot intended to illustrate the precise shape of a region and are notintended to limit the scope of the present claims.

As the invention has been described in connection with what is presentlyconsidered to be the most practical and various embodiments, it is to beunderstood that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosedembodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover variousmodifications and equivalent arrangements included within the scope ofthe appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, theyare used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes oflimitation.

This written description uses examples to disclose the invention,including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in theart to practice the invention, including making and using any devices orsystems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope ofthe invention is defined in the claims, and may include other examplesthat occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intendedto be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elementsthat do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if theyinclude equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differencesfrom the literal language of the claims.

In conclusion, herein is presented an interlocking reusable spill-proofcontainer. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to aninterlocking reusable spill-proof travel bottle that can house acosmetic or personal care product, or separately house multiplecosmetics or personal care products, depending on the embodiment. Thedisclosure is illustrated by example in the drawing figures, andthroughout the written description. It should be understood thatnumerous variations are possible while adhering to the inventiveconcept. Such variations are contemplated as being a part of the presentdisclosure.

1. A kit comprising a plurality of interlocking spill-proof containersincluding a first container and a second container, the firstspill-proof container comprising: a petri comprising: a body having atop opening, at least one cavity, a bottom and at least one magnet; anda jacket that at least partially envelops the body; and a cap configuredfor placement over the petri, the second spill-proof containercomprising: a petri comprising: a body having a top opening, at leastone cavity, a bottom and at least one magnet; and a jacket that at leastpartially envelops the body; a cap configured for placement over thepetri; and at least one center section disposed between the petri andthe cap, wherein the first and second containers are releasably attachedto each other via the magnets contained by the first and secondcontainers.
 2. The kit of claim 1, wherein the jacket and cap of thefirst and second containers each have a plurality of exterior walls thatform a hexagon shape.
 3. The kit of claim 1, wherein the petri and capof the first container are interchangeable with the petri and cap of thesecond container to form modified containers.
 4. The kit of claim 1,further comprising the third spill-proof container comprising: a petricomprising: a body having a top opening, at least one cavity, a bottomand at least one magnet; and a jacket that at least partially envelopsthe body; a cap configured for placement over the petri; and at leastone center section disposed between the petri and the cap, wherein thefirst, second and third containers are releasably attached to one othervia the magnets contained by the first, second and third containers. 5.The kit of claim 1, wherein the petri, cap and center sections of thefirst, second and third containers are interchangeable with one anotherto form modified containers.
 6. The kit of claim 1, wherein in each caphas a top surface that includes a recess sized to receive a label. 7.The kit of claim 1, further comprising a third spill-proof containercomprising: a center section having a plurality of embedded magnets, afirst well defined by a first bottom and a first opening equipped with afirst attachment mechanism, and a second well defined by a second bottomand a second opening equipped with a second attachment mechanism,wherein the first bottom and the second bottom are proximate to eachother; a first portion having a first end and a second end, the firstend having a means for releasably attaching to the first attachmentmechanism and a first member such that when the first portion isattached to the center section via the first attachment mechanism, thefirst member creates a fluid-impermeable seal with the first opening,the second end having a third well with a third bottom and a thirdopening equipped with a third attachment mechanism; a second portionhaving a third end and a fourth end, the third end having a means forreleasably attaching to the second attachment mechanism and a secondmember such that when the second portion is attached to the centersection via the second attachment mechanism, the second member creates afluid-impermeable seal with the second opening, the fourth end having afourth well with a fourth bottom and a fourth opening equipped with afourth attachment mechanism; a first cap having a means for releasablyattaching with the third attachment mechanism and a means for creating afluid-impermeable seal with the third opening when attached thereto; anda second cap having a means for releasably attaching with the fourthattachment mechanism and a means for creating a fluid-impermeable sealwith the fourth opening when attached thereto, wherein the first, secondand third containers are releasably attached to one other via themagnets contained by the first, second and third containers.
 8. The kitof claim 8, wherein the caps, petri and center sections of the first,second and third containers are interchangeable with one another to formmodified containers.
 9. The kit of claim 1, wherein the petris of thefirst and second containers differ in size.